As reported in today's SportingLife, Irish Thoroughbred Marketing is to expand its British sponsorship by backing five two-year-old races, including Salisbury's Listed Dick Poole Fillies' Stakes on September 1.

Supported under the banner of 'Think Thoroughbred - Think Ireland' the five races are at York on August 31, Salisbury, Beverley on September 14 and both Ayr and Yarmouth on September 15.

There's been a few great quotes in the past week:

The first is courtesy of the recent saga involving the Written Bloodstock Syndicate (a joint venture between business colleagues Mark Peters and Larry King) and leading Sydney trainer Grahame Begg. The quote comes from Begg (who will lose 13 of his best racehorses including Our Egyptian Raine and Written Tycoon).

"I've been sacked, hammer and tack, by fax"

The second is from Yallambee Stud's Peter Woodard who, when accepting the award for Champion Victorian Freshman Sire for Testa Rossa, took a moment to encourage Victorian owners and breeders to stand by the local product.

"I don't want to be getting postcards from Testa Rossa in the NSW Hunter Valley!"

The third - and indeed the best in terms of dry humour (no pun intended) - goes to Cups King Bart Cummings who today weighed in on the debate surrounding the condition of Sydney tracks.

"The tracks have been extraordinarily hard considering the automated sprinkler system, there must be a demarcation dispute over who presses the button to turn them on because nobody has pushed it for years."

Well, if you WERE once called Morphetville Racecourse then potentially a lot.

As reported by Tony Reed in The Advertiser , the South Australian track has become the first in Australia to sell its name to a corporate sponsor.

"In an unprecedented move to secure its financial future, the state's racing industry headquarters yesterday took on the name of trucking magnate Allan Scott.

The course now will be called Allan Scott Park Morphettville.

The move has taken race sponsorship to a new level, extending the corporate dollar from the simple naming of races.

Mr Scott, who this month renewed a major sponsorship deal with the Port Adelaide Football Club in the AFL, signed a five-year, multimillion-dollar sponsorship deal with the South Australian Jockey Club.

The full story is at the following URL.

Ken Martinus from The Hong Kong Standard reports that the star of the Hong Kong turf - Silent Witness - is to be immortalized in song.

"A local composer, Hans Ebert, has written a song, and penned the lyrics, tentatively entitled The Spirit of Hong Kong and is now working on the Chinese version to be sung by comedian-singer Ronald Cheng.

The club had also produced the first-ever comic book about Silent Witness, in Chinese, which is to be distributed to racegoers shortly".

Full story at the following URL.

Couldn't resist this one that appears in a Magic Millions press release titled "PINEZERO IN FORM ON WAY TO THOUSAND GUINEAS" (20 AUG 2005):

"Runner-up Chetwynd South, a certainty beaten last start in stakes class in Adelaide, lost ground in the straight when she ran around. Another Magic Millions graduate, Chetwynd South looks a filly the a future. A stakes win looks inevitable."

All eyes turn to Keeneland next month. Meanwhile, vendors are working overtime to maximise the effectiveness of their marketing efforts. A new initiative adopted by EQUIX is its GaitCam and Yearling Marketing Program.

In combination they are quite an innovative approach to selling and purchasing yearlings.

Like Sirecam which has found such success in the Southern Hemisphere, EQUIX GaitCam is a high speed, digital video of a yearling's gait. The EQUIX video is slower to load than Sirecam's (even with a high speed broadband connection) BUT the front view video is by far the best I have come across in terms of clarity and the clearly differentiated area in which the horse is walked which allows much closer examination of conformation/gait.

The GaitCam website as well as the consigners website list the videos. The video can be viewed in real time, slow motion format or paused with absolute clarity. In addition the website specifies the yearling's Athletic Potential Analysis, Optimal Racing Distance, Phenotype and the catalogue page.

It's quite a unique package. To see an example click here. The colt that features in this example is by Street Cry out of Purr Pleasure (by El Gran Senor).

"The Yearling Marketing Program along with the GaitCam enhances the yearling sales experience for both consigners and buyers. We believe that by providing key information on the yearling along with the ability to view the yearlings gait, via the internet, will enhance the Sales experience and may attract additional buyers to the sale," says Dennis Antolik, EQUIX President. "Further, everyone in the thoroughbred industry wants to create as buyer friendly environment as possible. We believe that more information buyers have the more comfortable they will feel as they participate in these sales."

Those interested in additional material can also check the EQUIX website.

The Racing NSW website includes a suggestion box on the home page and it's often worth glancing at as there are some excellent initiatives mentioned on it.

Back in June of this year a Peter McMahon from Richmond NSW contributed a suggestion titled "Naming Horses with Linked Words".

He states:

"I write in the hope that you may halt the precedent that is being set by owners - mirroring the habit of naming harness horses that are three or for words jumbled up into one.

"Years ago a horse raced under the name of Ubetido. That was a novelty that came and went, however, I have fears that this ridiculous practice could catch on to the extent that a field was made up of the likes of Minesbetrnyors - Goyagoodthing - Memrsfoundout, etc, etc."

I wanted to comment on his suggestion at the time as I wholeheartedly agreed with it but felt as if my hands were tied slightly as, ironically, one of my best friends owns a number of horses with 'jumbled' names that would make Mr McMahon weep (and one has to be careful not to offend friends so it's sometimes best to say nothing at all!)

The 'naming game' is one that attracts a lot of healthy debate. A Mr M Hayes wrote to me today to say that he has also come across the occasional horse with an undignified name (none of his examples being jumbled names either which only further illustrated how sensitive - and indeed broad - the issue is). He was however full of praise for a number of owners who have, in his words, "cleverly named horses":

"[The] three I remember are a John Hawkes trained filly by Dracula out of Sketches, named "Bloodline" - a New Zealand bred horse by Pins out of Quack, named "Acupunture" - and one that raced locally some years back, by Godswalk out of Par Round, named "Fairway To Heaven"."

The race may have been downgraded from G2 to G3 status but it could not take anything away from the quality of the three grandsons of the legendary Danehill who finished 1-2-3 in today’s Up and Coming Stakes at Randwick.

Redoute’s Choice (2005 service fee $220,000) sired the first two across the line – stars of the Autumn Carnival Snitzel (part owned by Arrowfield Stud) and Stratum (part owned by Widden Stud). Lord Dane sired the third place getter Denmarket.

Lord Dane stands for just $4,950 at Heytesbury Thoroughbreds in Keysbrook WA and Denmarket (ex Business Babe by Bletchingly) was one of only 22 live foals from Lord Dane’s first crop. From just 5 starts Denmarket has wins in the Supremacy Stakes (LR) and the WA Sires Produce Stakes (G3) (and was placed in The Perth Stakes (LR) and now the Up and Coming Stakes (G3)). Yet another good galloper produced from the Western State it would seem. It is certainly good news (and timing) for his sire as well.

It was also a great result for the Gerald Ryan stable - Snitzel and Denmarket both saddled by Ryan.

I said once (well, I think I did!) that you should always keep track of who is talking about your company as you can often accrue sideline PR from sources that may have utterly nothing to do with your specific industry.

Case in point: I was running a search across Technorati and Blog Pulse today (it can be quite helpful to know what various writers are saying about trends, or companies and individuals on your watch list in the 'blogosphere') with the search terms 'thoroughbred industry'.

This one turned up on page (who knows - 40 or something):

"$2.1 Million in Mystery Mutuel Vouchers Mailed in NTRA Promotion(BloodHorse). The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) said vouchers worth $2.1 million, including a $1 million grand prize, have been mailed to more than 360,000 consumers as part of the NTRA Mystery Mutuel Voucher promotion Aug. 13. The voucher giveaway is NTRA's 11th such promotion since August 2000. The vouchers are redeemable Aug. 13 at participating racetracks and OTBs."

The source was a blog run by DirectMarketing-05.com. Is the company thoroughbred specific? Nope. Know anything about horses? I'd hazard a guess and say no. BUT the NTRA and the Bloodhorse both got a mention.

And how about this one - CatalogsCentral.com (An information and resource website about catalogs and catalog shopping):

"Keeneland catalogs record 5,110 for September yearling sale. Thoroughbred Times. With a sale-record $8-million colt and an all-time auction record of $325-million in gross receipts, last year's record-breaking Keeneland September yearling sale..."

The increasingly sophisticated nature of search tools on the Internet allows you to track what people are saying about your company/product on the Web and it's amazing discovering where information ends up isn't it?

Sometimes (not saying 'always'!) it can be worth knowing about.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has fined two companies a total of $13,200 for breaches of the Spam Act. The company spammed using mobile phone SMS rather than the more traditional email.

Queensland-based Global Racing Group and a second company Australian SMS were fined for breaching the Spam Act and the Australian e-marketing industry code of practice.

"According to the authority, the companies sent out, via an offshore third-party, more than 50,000 commercial SMS messages marketing an investment scheme in software which provided horseracing tips.

"Lyn Maddock, acting ACMA chair, said SMS spam is not exempt from the provisions of the Spam Act and is often perceived as more intrusive than e-mail spam. The involvement of a third-party located offshore did not mean the provisions of the Act could be circumvented, Maddock said.

"Maddock said all businesses are required to comply with the Spam Act, no matter how large or small their marketing activities. The Spam Act requires that commercial electronic messages only be sent with consent, that they include accurate identifying information about the sender and that they include a functional, unsubscribe facility."

Source: ComputerWorld

We've heard of horses winning the same G1 race in consecutive years. What about a horse finishing second in the same G1 not twice - but three years in a row?

THE TATLING finished 2nd to Oasis Dream in the Nunthorpe Stakes over 1,000m at York in 2003; 2nd to Bahamian Pirate in 2004 and 2nd to La Cucaracha ... well, all of 5 minutes ago.

Is this a record???

Former top class Australian racemare Lan Kwai Fong will be represented at the upcoming Keeneland September Yearling Sale (Sept 12-26) at Lexington in Kentucky.

The dark bay filly by leading sire Pulpit is the first foal of Lan Kwai Fong and will be offered as Lot 923 during the third session (Wednesday September 14th).

"She's the sort of filly that should have strong appeal to our local breeders, being from such a good Australian racemare and by a proven sire in Pulpit, who is free of the Danzig blood which has become so prevalent in this country, said Vin Cox, Keeneland's Australasian representative.

Lan Kwai Fong was originally purchased by Ron Dufficy for $110,000 as a yearling at Easter. By Bluebird (USA) from the Fappiano mare Veronical (USA), she competed successfully from Lindsay Park, winning several races including the VRC The Vanity Gr 3, not to mention running a long neck second in the VRC Oaks Gr 1.

"She has a lovely international pedigree, featuring champion US sire Broad Brush, so it always made economic sense to send her back to the States", said Cox.

Lan Kwai Fong made $US450,000 when offered at the 2003 Keeneland November Breeding Stock Sale, knocked down to the bid of Lexington based Forging Oaks Farm.

"Breeding for the global market is the way of the future, just look at what John Messara is doing with Alinghi, who is campaigning in North America right now", said Cox. "If you dont have an internationally recognized pedigree, then international race performance is the only other way in which you can move upwards into that next elite level of commercial thoroughbred breeding".

It's not just rock stars that go on world tours to promote their latest albums - famous trophies also go on tour to promote, amongst other things, international race carnivals.

The Melbourne Cup is currently touring a number of countries, ambassadors Bart Cummings (trainer) and Bruce McAvaney (television commentator) having already escorted the Cup around England and Ireland. Next stop - Dubai and Singapore.

Damien Oliver has also accepted a role with the VRC as a Melbourne Cup ambassador for part of the global tour. Oliver will join the tour when it heads to Hong Kong next month and then to his home state of WA.

"[Oliver] first won the cup on Doriemus in 1995 and on the Irish stayer Media Puzzle in 2002, a win he dedicated to his brother Jason, also a jockey, who died a week earlier after a trackwork fall."

Source: The Age newspaper.

So how did YOU spend your weekends when you were nine years old?

I spent most of my time in the stables or on horseback (plus the requisite time sitting on the driveway polishing my miniature riding boots on a Sunday night before school - a rule in our house that I was happy enough to abide by given it was my grandfather who set it) and I would dream of the day when I would own all number of top class eventers. I can't honestly say that I ever spent much time (if in fact ANY) contemplating how to finance my own company.

A lot has changed in the past 24 years it would seem.

An American girl by the name of Delaney has gone well beyond pony club and boot polish. She's collected horse shoes from the steeds who have carried her around endless laps of the local riding school and has set up her own art-related company known as HorseShues.

As the girl's father states on the website:

"Horseshues.com is a family venture, part commerce, part teaching activity for our daughter. Delaney is horse crazy (to put it mildly). She came up with the idea to decorate old horseshoes and sell them as a way to save money for the horse she plans to start her herd with. She has no intention of stopping at one horse. She wants a whole herd!

"The more I thought about it, the better the idea got. We "loaned" her the start up capital, which was not much more than some money for web hosting, the domain, and her first batch of supplies. She paid that back from sales revenue in one week, and has remained profitable ever since."

I can't say that I am one for artistic horse shoes (a shoe falls off and I'm the person who curses and thinks "I JUST GOT THE FARRIER OUT TO FIX THAT!!!!!!!!!" rather than appreciate its potential artistic lifespan) but nevertheless, you can't take anything away from this young businesswoman.

Dave Rubin from Your Average Horseplayer has alerted me to a film review he has written about a new horse racing documentary. The film is called called "On the Muscle" and it follows the Richard Mandella barn up to and including his record setting performance in the 2003 Breeders Cup.

We're not aware of any other reviews for this particular DVD (another blogger with a "first to market" commentary!) so if you are interested in reading more you might want to head across to the following link.

If you have a website and are looking for ways to maximise the number of people who 'opt in' for email (a necessary thing these days given the anti-spam laws) then the article by Linda Schumacher in this month's MarketingProfs titled Eight Tips for Enhancing Email Opt-In is a must-read.

"Onsite registration—the steps taken to opt in to an email list, and the messages received during the process—is arguably the most important aspect of any successful email program. It's during this process, the very first email customer touchpoint, that companies have a chance to stand out from their competitors by communicating value proposition, establishing sincere concern for subscriber privacy, and showing respect for users by providing control over the type and frequency of the emails received.

If you're ready to turn your Web site into an email opt-in machine, consider implementing some of the following enhancements".

The full article is at the following URL.

I have also received this email from a UK-based reader (who asks to remain anonymous). They are commenting on the post I wrote last week about the hype attached to the Danehill 2yo colt GEORGE WASHINGTON.

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I read with great interest your recent item regarding George Washington and his elevation to favoritism for next year's 2000 Guineas following his win in the Phoenix Stakes in Ireland.

As you pointed out, a trend has developed with the race and its winners not going on to fulfill their potential at three, Turtle Island being the last when he won the race in 1992 (beating the subsequent 1000 Guineas winner Las Meninas). So rather than rush in and take the 5's on offer about George Washington, perhaps it would be wiser to analyse the Washington Singer Stakes at Newbury on August 12, won by Khalid Abdulla's Innocent Air.

Going back to 1988 Prince of Dance was disqualified after being first past the post but went on to win the Dewhurst later in the year. Terimon was fourth and went on to be second to Nashwan in the Derby in 1989, before finishing second in the Eclipse in 1990 but then defeated Quest For Fame in the 1991 Coronation Cup. In 1991 Rodrigo de Triano won the Washington Singer and at three went on to win the English and Irish 2000 Guineas, the Juddmonte International and the Champion Stakes. Tenby won in 1992 and at three won the Dante at York but was unplaced at odds on in the Derby. He was then third in the Eclipse. Colonel Collins won in 1993 and went on to be placed in the 2000 Guineas, Derby and Irish Derby. In 1994 Lammtarra began his unbeaten career in the Washington Singer. The following year he won the Derby, King George and Arc. Bahr won in 1997 and she would go on and finish second in the Oaks, win the Ribblesdale at Royal Ascot before thirds in the Irish Oaks and Flower Bowl in America. City Honours, fourth to her in the Washington Singer, would finish second in both Derbies at Epsom and the Curragh. Millenary was third in 1999 before going on to win the St Leger at three while Mamool was second in 2001. Haafhd won in 2003 and went on to win the 2000 Guineas while Milk It Mick (third in the Washington Singer) would win the Dewhurst later in the year. And last year, Wilko was second in the Washington Singer and went on to win the Breeders Cup Juvenile.

Have had a few emails arrive regarding yesterday's jockey question:

The first from a reader in Queensland who wrote:

"In reference to your query about the last Aust jockey to ride a G1 in 4 countries perhaps Craig Williams fits the bill? I think the records have him winning G1's in both England and France about Tobougg, as well as G1's in Australia and Hong Kong."

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A reader in Europe then states:

"Hong Kong Group 1s arent international Group 1s and I cant think of a group 1 win in australia. G1's on International Day in HK and the Champions Mile are, I think you will find, the only international G1s in HK"

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A reader in Sydney responds:

"Craig Williams certainly won G1s in France and the UK on Tobougg as a 2yo - the Salamandre and the Dewhurst. He won an Australasian Oaks on Grand Echezeaux. He's probably ridden a G1 winner in HK, but I can't think of any off the top of my head. It's correct to say that most HK G1s aren't regarded as international G1s, as most of them aren't open to all horses (same applies to most Japanese G1s). Only the QEII and the Internationals qualify as international G1s. That's why they appear in catalogues as "G1 (HK)" and G1 (Jap)", and why a stallion's international G1 winners are listed before his domestic horses e.g. Stay Gold, miles away from Sunday Silence's best horse, is listed first in catalogues because he won the HK Vase."

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

(a reader from the UK has also identified that Stay Gold also won the Dubai Sheema Classic.)

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Another one from Sydney:

"I don't think the Champions Mile is an International G1.

The Japanese are presently in the process of opening up their G1 races to the outside world (very slowly indeed though)."

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

For completeness sake John Baxter in Sydney also wrote: "I see someone mentioned Stay Gold's Sheema Classic to you. He did indeed win a Sheema Classic (beating Fantastic Light). However, the race was only G2 level when he won it. It has subsequently been elevated to its current G1 status."

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

I will keep adding your emails as they arrive (apparently the question has also been posted on one of the forums this evening - so it will be interesting to see what comes out of that).

We'll figure out the answer eventually!

TIMEFORM'S TOP WORLD RANKED HORSES (as at 31 July) (* indicates retired from racing)

1 *GHOSTZAPPER (USA)
2 AZAMOUR (Ire)
2 MOTIVATOR (GB)
2 *SHAMARDAL (USA)
5 AFLEET ALEX (USA)
6 SAINT LIAM (USA)
7 BAGO (Fr)
7 DIVINE PROPORTIONS (USA)
7 DUBAWI (Ire)
7 GREY SWALLOW (Ire)
7 NORSE DANCER (Ire)
7 PROCLAMATION (Ire)
7 RAKTI (GB)
7 ROSES IN MAY (USA)
7 SILENT WITNESS (Aus)
7 VALIXIR (Ire)

Full the full list see Timeform.

There is also an interesting list on the site to Timeform's Greatest Racehorses:

Highest Timeform Annual Ratings (Flat)

145 Sea Bird II
144 Brigadier Gerard, Tudor Minstrel
142 Abernant, Ribot, Windy City
141 Mill Reef
140 Dancing Brave, Dubai Millennium, Shergar, Vaguely Noble

“I think what is so frustrating for everyone, especially newcomers who are successful in their own businesses, is that picking out good horses is like trying to field an NFL team by drafting ten-year-old kids.”

Dogwood Stable President Cot Campbell, in the New York Times, on the trials and tribulations of finding talented horses at auction

Source: Thoroughbred Times Today August 15, 2005

I received an email from someone in Europe last night who asked the following question:

"Who was the last Australian jockey to ride Group One winners in 4 separate countries?"

I'd just received word of Kerrin McEvoy's brilliant win on Dubawi in the Group 1 Prix Jacques le Marois in Deauville so I smugly responded "McEvoy of course".

Alas the reader was looking for the PRIOR record holder.

Crikey.

Someone else has since suggested that if you include your 4 countries as Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and New Zealand then you have a veritable feast of jockeys who could claim credit. If we include Europe to the mix it does, however, get more interesting. (The same reader suggested George Moore and Pat Glennon).

If anyone else has any ideas please drop us a line at info@athloneassociates.com and indicate if you are happy for your name to be mentioned.

I'm probably more surprised that anyone that this weblog ("blog") quietly passed its 12 month anniversary today.

It's been quite a journey: 667 posts, more than 140,000 words and quite a few nights wondering how it was that I was suddenly married to an Internet account and all number of newspapers and web portals (typically 1-2 hours of research a day) in addition to my competing work, travel and client commitments.

The 12 months has been a time of continual expansion - our original few dozen daily readers have grown to a few thousand and we now have a huge number of highly influential Industry professionals also regularly reading our posts which often makes me sit back and contemplate how amazing it is how quickly these things accelerate.

The aim has always been to give something back to the Industry - marketing ideas, opinion and an overview of what others are doing - all free of the advertising dollar which can so often influence what is written. It hasn't been easy - websites are incredibly expensive things to run and some of the sponsorship offers have been excruciatingly tempting (particularly the last one!!!) but we have chosen to remain ad-free at this point in time.

In 365 days we have canvassed all number of topics from around the globe - from branding to advertising to stallion performance to media watch segments and everything in between. We have (unashamedly) stirred controversy with some of the things we have written - but equally we have been buoyed by the large amount of positive feedback we have received.

I'd like to thank John Baxter for his editorial role during the first 6 months of the blog's history, Helen McDonald for her recent contributions, the large number of readers in Europe/North America/Dubai/New Zealand/Australia/Hong Kong who regularly email me with ideas and feedback - and the Industry itself for inspiring me on a daily basis.

Here's to the next 140,000 words!

Years ago every stud farm remained studiously silent on the issue of "early season foals" but these days they are quite open about the fact that Nature does not always abide by the rules.

We saw a number of early announcements this year including news on 25 July that the first Australian bred foal by FALBRAV (out of the Lure mare Sequin, a half sister to Group 1 winner Scintillation and Group 2 winner Shania Dane, and the dam of the 2YO stakeswinning Snippets filly Get To Work) had been born at Highgrove Stud.

We're officially in the breeding season now - so can expect quite a lot of press around the foals of the first season sires. Today's news was that Lonhro is now a Dad - his first Woodlands Stud-bred foal arriving; a jet black filly out of VRC Oaks victrix Lovelorn (Grand Lodge). Lonhro retired to stud as the winner of 26 of his 35 starts, including 11 Gr.1 victories.

THE 2006 THOROUGHBRED TIMES Racing Almanac, a 976-page collection of racing facts, figures, statistics, and trivia published by THOROUGHBRED TIMES, is now available.

The fourth edition of the book has in-depth statistics and information on racing's most celebrated events—the Triple Crown and Breeders' Cup—reporting the all-time leading jockeys, trainers, owners, breeders, sires, and past winners of all those important races.

Other highlights in the Racing Almanac include sections on notable horses and people, past and contemporary, past champions, Racing Hall of Fame members, information on sires and dams, racing’s all-time leaders in a variety of categories, an industry directory of organizations, a complete directory of North American tracks, an international section, a racing terms section, and more.

New sections in the 2006 Racing Almanac include all graded stakes histories to 1973, famous dispersals, progression of track records, leading sires of stakes winners and millionaires, foreign horses in the Kentucky Derby (G1), and a chronology of the world’s richest race.

It's also only US$19.95 plus postage. Click here for further details.

Marketing, media, headlines, and hype. For all the words starting with 'm' and 'h' in there there is actually only one (ironically - not represented) that is the outcome of the process: profit.

The people behind the profit push are the companies selling the products/services, and, more frequently these days, they are assisted by a team of marketers. These professionals may just be doing their job but they (also ironically perhaps) will be the ones to bear the brunt of those dreaded hissed words "it's all YOUR fault you know" when the end of year figures come in (as if somehow the root of the drought, the infertile stallion, the progeny that never cut it as crack 2yo's, the cat that was run over [not by you], the trainer with utterly no people skills, and the fact that it gets dark at 5pm all inexplicably rest at your feet). It's as if the public/Board/owner of the cat somehow magically believe that the forces of competition and globalisation just happened whilst they were all asleep one night.

Like everything in life there is good and bad marketing (and hype, media, and headlines). There are also good and bad marketers.

A good marketer knows as much about business development as they do about branded collaterals (brochures, baseball caps and envelopes) and arranging cocktail parties, and a lot of very good marketers - being realists - are actually going increasingly light on the (questionable) hype these days, and are building increasingly strong reputations as a result.

But, hype continues to make headlines, and feeds the dreams of many. So, many insist on pursuing it ... even if it's relative truth/merit is less than clear.

A story from yesterday's racing news will ably assist me in illustrating the point.

Impeccably bred 2yo colt GEORGE WASHINGTON could not have been more impressive in his 8 length white wash of the opposition in the G1 Phoenix Stakes in Ireland. The headline: He is now a 5-1 quote for next year’s 2000 Guineas.

Stud owners rub their hands with glee, journalists clamour for quotes, race enthusiasts launch into frenetic forum debates, and racing portals and newspapers everywhere splash the headlines in vibrant colour.

Questionable hype?

Perhaps.

There are some months between now and next May at Newmarket. It's probably also worth having a look at recent winners of the Phoenix Stakes and their subsequent records at three to see how solid such early hype actually is (we'll stick to the past 10 years so feel free to trawl back earlier than that and argue with me if I'm way off track):

1995 Danehill Dancer: Six starts for one win (Group 3 Greenham Stakes at Newbury). Finished sixth to Mark of Esteem in 2000 Guineas at Newmarket and ninth to Ashkalani in the French 2000 Guineas.

1996 Mantovani: Didn’t run as a three-year-old.

1997 Princely Heir: Seven starts without a win. Finished fourth to Tiger Hill in the German 2000 Guineas.

1998 Lavery: Three starts for one win, the Shergar Sprint Cup. Finished 10th to Sendawar in French 2000 Guineas.

1999 Fasliyev: Didn’t run as a three-year-old.

2000 Minardi: Five starts without a win. Finished fourth to Golan at Newmarket and third to Black Minnaloushe at the Curragh.

2001 Johannesburg: Three starts without a win. Finished eighth to War Emblem in Kentucky Derby.

2002 Spartacus: Two starts without a win. Finished last in both appearances.

2003 One Cool Cat: Five starts for one win, the Group 3 Phoenix Sprint Stakes. Finished 13th to Haafhd at Newmarket.

2004 Damson: Three starts to date in 2005 without a win. Finished 9th to Saoire in the Irish 1000 Guineas.

Now - I'm in the business of "hype". I could therefore rush out another headline. Instead I might just quietly take my seat at this point. No further questions your Honour.

[Update: seems the Racing Post's Michael Clower has had similar thoughts - his article spotted this evening at the following URL:

"Obviously you can see why he is the 2,000 Guineas favourite although the Phoenix Stakes has a chequered history when it comes to producing three-year-olds ... No winner has gone on to land a Classic since Turtle Island 12 years ago and only one of the past six winners has even won a race at three."]

Australia's champion sire (the now deceased) Danehill continues to rack up the winners, siring a Group double in Europe yesterday including the Coolmore-owned 2yo colt - George Washington - who blitzed his rivals by 8 lengths in the G1 Independent Waterford Wedgwood Phoenix Stakes (that would be a nice trophy me thinks!) over 6 furlongs at the Curragh. The colt has had just four starts and won his last three; and for the pedigree buffs he is also a half-brother to Grandera (Grand Lodge) whose six wins include 3 at G1 level: the Irish Champion Stakes, Prince of Wales’s Stakes and Singapore Airlines International Cup. George Washington cost 1.15 million guineas at Tattersalls last October and in a sign of support to those who gamble at the top end of the market, was the only seven figure yearling sold in Europe last year. He has also helped to make life in the Tattersalls marketing department an extremely enjoyable experience as he is the fifth Tattersalls saletopper to win at Group/Listed level in 2005, following the Group 2 and 3 wins by Imperial Stride and All Too Beautiful respectively and the Listed wins by the Classic placed filly Mona Lisa and the world record breaking filly My Typhoon.

I did a double take at last week's headline in The Age newspaper "International raid gathers pace" - the connotation being that, yet again, someone was moaning about the number of international horses set to take on the Race That Stops a Nation (the irony too wondrous to overlook given the sheer number of Australian horses stamping passports for international flights of late).

But, for once, the headline was deceptive.

Andrew Eddy's article is a good one and analyses the efforts Racing Victoria has been involved in in terms of raising the international profile of Australia's most famous race.

Some of you may be surprised to learn that the Cup has been open to international competitors for more than a decade now "but officials realise its appeal must be extended into new countries for it to keep growing".

Nominations for this year's Cup have been received from the connections of horses based in the following countries:

France (5), England (20), Germany (2), Hong Kong (2), Ireland (11), Japan (2), South Africa (1), the USA (1) and United Arab Emirates (6), as well as a number of NZ entries.

Among the international entries are seven of the world's top 50 horses.

A few things have changed since I had the opportunity to guest post here at Athlone & Associates in July. We have replaced the IXL tins with two modern glass Cottees bottles that seem to crank up the speed on the email. We have given the baling twine a miss and have opted for some fencing tape that seems to hold during the inclement weather. But life on the farm pretty much falls into a routine except when a horse turns the attention on itself by doing something silly like running into a fence or developing colic. Pretty much attention seeking behaviour by the equines we feel, but what can you do?

One issue that has moved along (albeit at a snail’s pace) since we last spoke is the TVN coverage issue to rural Australia.

For 3 days a week I offer my services to the local Telstra Countrywide office and last Thursday started as most of them do - an armful of complaints, several upset customers and no chance to get a cup of coffee to keep the sanity.

My phone rings and it's my husband Evan. (“Phew” I think to myself!).

“WE HAVE TVN! I can see the Sydney races! Woooohooo and it only cost us an extra $1 per month!!”

There is now one very happy man in Warwick.

Maybe the politicians had listened to my cries of help? Maybe the politicians moved heaven and earth and realized how unfair this whole situation is to those of us who live outside a metropolitan area??

Don’t get too excited. They didn’t do anything. It seems that Austar had found a loophole in their contract and could now bring this wonderful service to all of its country providers!

... and there was dancing in the street and much rejoicing because finally, finally someone had come to the aid of country Australia!!

Ever heard of that expression, “Don’t count your chickens?” Hmmmm.

At approximately 2.00pm Saturday afternoon - courtesy of an injunction by Sky Channel - a message flashed across our screens, “Sorry folks, due to an injunction by Sky Channel this broadcast has been terminated. We will fight them in the trenches and on the beaches ... Blah, blah, blah ...”

Surely commonsense says that there is room for two providers of horse racing in this great country of ours? Or does this issue go further to the TAB's and their controlling influence in this industry? Or perhaps life as we know it, does not exist outside of the metropolitan areas of our capital cities?

Whatever the answer is to these questions, there is now one unhappy man living in Warwick, who had the sweet taste of Utopia for such a short time and now has to settle for the Globe Derby of an afternoon as a fill in to the Sydney and Melbourne programmes.

Helen McDonald

www.massielodge.com

www.gallopers.com.au

As reported in Stallions Daily Bulletin , Lindsay Park is continuing the reform of its management structure.

- David Saegenschnitter (current general manager of the stud) will join David and Sam Hayes as a director of the newly formed company Lindsay Park Stud SA Pty Ltd.

- Former jumps jockey (and more recently assistant trainer to Tony McEvoy) John Cornell has also been employed to handle client relations as the stud embarks on a series of new customer service iniatives.

- Jodie Collins, who was previously assistant manager at Collingrove Stud in Victoria, will become a full-time employee at Lindsay Park in the role of assistant to stud operations manager David Storton.

- Simon I’ansson, who is assistant stallion man, and stud groom Ron Walder, will work closely with David and Jodie.

- Greg Thomas will remain stud administration manager

- Lindsay Park’s veterinarians Dr Campbell Baker and Dr Madalen Baltussen will also continue in their roles.

Charlotte Dickie has jumped ship from her role as public relations manager at Racing Victoria to assume the position of chief executive officer of the Tasmanian Thoroughbred Racing Council. Prior to her role at Racing Victoria Dickie worked in federal politics (gaining experience in the portfolios of Health, Immigration, Multicultural Affairs & Foreign Affairs).

There are all number of examples of half-brothers to famous horses at stud. Full brothers are not quite as common but if there is a hint of "champion" in the pedigree then the odds will be on a brother (even if sporting a lesser or no race record) appearing in a breeding shed in some part of the country. Breeders then gamble on genetic replications (at a much reduced price) and stud masters benefit from the marketing wave that usually attaches to the more famous sibling.

Some Australian examples of this include: Geronimo (who rides on the coat tails of his full sister Dane Ripper); Eagle Eyed and Nuclear Freeze (Danehill); Rock of Cashel (Rock of Gibraltar); Platinum Scissors (Redoute's Choice); Dane Supreme (Langoustine and One World); Niello (Lonhro); Pride and Glory (In Command); Saithor (Summer Squall); Shrewdy (Camarena); Untouchable (Camarena); and Vice Admiral (Dehere).

Meanwhile European Breeding News reports that another full brother to a name many will be familiar with - Giant's Causeway -sired his first winner from his first crop on Wednesday. FREUD's daughter My Interpretation won by a length and a quarter over an extended mile on the turf at Saratoga. On its own the news would struggle to get a press mention. Linked to a stallion that is leading the second season sire chart in Europe at the moment however... guaranteed coverage.

Of note, whilst some may argue that the chances of a lesser known stallion emulating the stud success of a champion full brother are very slim - one can take some comfort from the example of Fairy King (a non-winning full brother to Sadler's Wells) who sired Encosta De Lago - a stallion who has well and truly stamped his mark as a leading Australian sire.

2yo filly Maggie Slew - famous for being the final foal sired by Triple Crown winner and champion sire Seattle Slew - pencilled a worthy line in her esteemed father's history book when she won a maiden race (by more than 6 lengths) at Monmouth Park last Thursday.

Seattle Slew (sire of champions A P Indy, Swale, Slew O'Gold, Capote and Landaluce) died in May 2002 and left a final crop of four fillies.

If you're a runner in one of the 16 Group 1 races scheduled for this year's Spring Carnival then Racing Victoria will be providing you with your very own 24-hour security guard (and surveillance) prior to your race.

It's the latest initiative towards increasing industry integrity. Other measures include:

- an additional $5 million (over five years) for drug research.
- expanding pre-race blood-testing program.
- employment of additional staff to monitor and analyze betting transactions.

Sport 927’s Brian Blackmore, one of Australia’s most experienced race commentators, has announced his impending retirement, effective Thursday 11 August 2005.

Brian commenced his career as a 16 year old, calling his first thoroughbred meeting at Quambatook.

Brian’s talent was quickly recognised and he accepted an offer to join 3TR (Traralgon) to cover all Gippsland meetings. He then moved to Channel 9 when telecasts were introduced into the local area. Brian’s calls then evolved to race reports for the print media at the Sporting Globe and in 1961 he joined 3DB and worked with the legendary Bill Collins for 12 years, before deciding to take a break from race broadcasting.

Brian’s love of horse racing saw him return to the then 3UZ (now Sport 927) in 1988 where he worked again with Bill Collins, and most recently Australia’s No. 1 racecaller Greg Miles.

Brian will call his last race at his ‘home track’ Bendigo on Thursday, August 11 2005.

I hate flying. I agree that this is probably a slightly odd revelation given the sheer number of hours I spend in the air each month (and as an aside - apart from the frequent flyer miles that you can never spend on upgrades on the dates you need them, all that this traveling has provided is extreme suspicion of anyone who claims flying is glamorous - they have either never done it before - or they only ever travel in front of that blue curtain).

Despite the dark look as I boarded my 8th plane in just 3 weeks yesterday I must confess that I did enjoy the first hour at 37,000 feet as I got to read the Australian form in an actual newspaper.

When you live overseas and are restricted to reading the form online and then listening to the races on the Internet (THANK GOD for TVN that offers online replays on its website)it was wonderful to shake out that old familiar newspaper that reminded me of years past when I used to take such things for granted (a Sydney Morning Herald of course), remove the racing supplement, (re-shake it - just as it sounded so damn good) and then immerse myself in the text, the business news (for once) set aside.

I tell you - it's the simple pleasures - one shouldn't knock them lightly.

In that vein, all companies should make the effort to find out how their clients like to receive information - in hard copy, by email (html or plain text version), on their mobile via an sms, or via your website. Not everyone is the same and tailored communication IS the essential differentiator these days.

Someone once said to me that thoroughbreds are born with a death wish and we spend our whole life merely trying to steer them away from it.

Greg Irvine reports in the Virtual FormGuide that Australia's champion filly Alinghi (currently in the US pursuing a Northern Hemisphere campaign) thought she would also test the limits of this theory by dumping her rider, escaping Belmont Racecourse and bolting across a busy four lane highway this week. She no doubt surprised a few early morning visitors at a Wendy's fast food outlet where she was finally caught.

Some additional grey hairs for connections I suspect.

Fortunately (miraculously?) Alinghi was uninjured in the incident.

The filly will debut in a US$65,000 race at Saratoga on Wednesday.

Further supporting the State's apprentice jockeys, Racing NSW released news earlier this week that a 4kg claim allowance for apprentices who have not ridden five winners would be introduced. The allowance in NSW applies only to rides in the country and provincial areas as no apprentice may accept metropolitan rides until he/she has ridden five winners.

In a second initiative, Racing NSW also fell into line with most other States on 1/8/05 in requiring that a probationary apprentice complete 20 satisfactory barrier trials prior to being licensed to ride in races. Previously, the requirement had been only 10 trials, although in most cases Stewards had been requiring additional rides from the probationary apprentice to ensure that they were sufficiently skilled and experienced before commencing race riding.

Malcolm Fitzgerald, of Industry Training, will continue to assess young riders prior to being given a permit to ride. The move to 20 trials ensures focus on safety and competency, prior to them gaining their race riding ticket.

Full details can be viewed at the following URL.

The original initiative (from 29 June 2005) can be viewed here.

The world's largest (and in terms of Industry barometer for 'general health' - most important) yearling sale - the Keeneland September Yearling Sale - is set to roll from 12/9. For a preview of horses in the first 4 sessions of the 5,110 horse sale check out the Keeneland site.

Speaking of sales - the Goffs Million Sale catalogue is also now online (hard copies will be distributed in the next 2 weeks). The graduates of the Irish sale are eligible for two races in September 2006 worth a staggering €2,400,000. These include the Goffs Million worth €1,000,000 to the winner and an alternative race for fillies worth €500,000 to the winner. The race-day is part of the official events of the Ryder Cup, due to be played the same week at the K Club a few miles from Goffs. Perhaps not surprisingly Ireland's major vendors have responded to the initiative with some excellent drafts.

I was attending a morning meeting in Sydney earlier this week and, as always given where I am based, by the time the second coffee had arrived the conversation had shifted to the China market.

It's the billion dollar question of course (gambling - or more correctly - the patient waiting game for its legalization - remaining the key issue), but for those people starting to market their services to buyers in China then you have some more fundamental things to tackle apart from counting the potential dollars (horse before the cart stuff rather than vice versa).

Your company name and how it's perceived for starters. Did you know, for example that the (very non thoroughbred) brand Coca Cola, was reportedly given the Chinese equivalent name of "bite the wax tadpole"?

A somewhat unfortunate state of affairs one could say.

Doris Ho from Brand Channel has written an excellent article titled "Naming: Entering the Chinese Market".

"As the Chinese saying goes, a badly chosen name or vision will hinder all subsequent efforts to success. This may sound overly dramatic, but not if you understand the significance of names in the Chinese context

"...In the same way, your Chinese brand name is an embodiment of your brand's culture, values, personality and vision. Care should be applied in transferring valuable equity over from the English brand name."

The article provides a user-friendly guide to finding a good Chinese brand name, choice of Chinese characters, what works best in individual markets, and finding the "right fit". They are things we have to think of daily living and working in Asia but it's surprising how often non-Chinese companies don't even give it a second thought. (Remember: "When in Rome ...")

What the article does not canvass is the need for you to register your name/trademarks in China. The protection of Intellectual Property is vital in all markets but particularly in China where IP theft remains rampant and you are also competing with a huge number of companies entering the market. A good IP lawyer (I would not recommend using one without direct experience of the China market) will be able to assist you with these matters.

Remember - in the rush to enter a market we can often forget the things that will protect our brand longer term. Taking the time to ensure your name is protected and enhanced by a new language - and is legally protected from misuse - provides a good foundation to any future marketing campaign.

Leading Japanese trainer Hideyuki Mori has confirmed that recent Japanese-based winners Zenno Goshu (Danehill) and Agnes Boy (Agnes World) are being aimed at the million dollar Magic Millions 3YO Trophy event over 1400 metres in 2006.

Mori has already demonstrated international success with his stable including Agnes World - winner of the Group One double of the July Cup in England and Prix de l'Abbaye in France. Seeking the Pearl was a winner at the elite level in France.

His other feature wins include a Japan Cup with Legacy World and a Hong Kong International Cup with Fujiyama Kenzan.

"This news from Mr Mori is extremely exciting," Magic Millions managing director David Chester said. "To have two Japanese based horses being aimed at the 3YO trophy makes what is already shaping as a historic meeting even more special."

Justifying the hype (and the 2005 service fee), here are the end of season figures/results for Arrowfield's glamour stallion Redoute's Choice.

The heading of the stud's press release was, fittingly perhaps, "REDOUTE’S CHOICE IN A LEAGUE OF HIS OWN".

Given my love of detail when it comes to sire stats I will also reproduce the release in its entirety:

At the completion of the 2004/05 racing season, Redoute’s Choice has broken a series of stallion records and done so with only two crops of racing age. On the racetrack, after securing the Champion First Season Sire title of Australia in 2003/04, Redoute’s Choice made the 2004/05 season his own by claiming the Champion 2YO Sire of Australia title (with record earnings of $5.94 million), the Champion 2nd Season Sire of Australia title (with record earnings of $7.9 million) and was the Leading Active Sire of Australia.

Redoute’s Choice had a phenomenal season with his 2YOs in 2004/05 and produced results that may never be replicated. His progeny created history by winning the three major 2YO races: the G1 STC Golden Slipper Stakes with Stratum, G1 MRC Blue Diamond Stakes with Undoubtedly, and the RL Gold Coast Magic Millions with Bradbury’s Luck. In addition, his daughter Fashions Afield won the G1 AJC Sires Produce. One of the most significant factors that demonstrated Redoute’s Choice’s dominance in the 2YO sires ranks was his multiple representatives in the majors. He had a record breaking six (6) runners in the Golden Slipper Stakes (and was the first stallion to quinella the race), four (4) runners in the Blue Diamond Stakes and five (5) runners in the Gold Coast Magic Millions (where he had four of the first five runners to cross the line).

His 2YO statistics in season 2004/05 speak for themselves: 55 runners for 23 winners, 10 stakeswinners of which 7 were Group winners including 3 individual Group 1 winners. His 2YO earnings of $5.94 million eclipsed the previous record set by fellow Arrowfield stallion Danzero of $3.57 million in the 2003/04 season by a staggering $2.4 million.

Redoute’s Choice also set a new benchmark for Second Crop Sires with earnings of $7.9 million, $6.1 million ahead of second placed Tayasu Tsuyoshi. Redoute’s Choice 2nd crop earnings are the highest of all time. Arrowfield’s Flying Spur registered the highest 2nd crop earnings since 2000 with $3.43 million. The previous highest mark was set by Danehill whose progeny earned $4.42 million.

On the General Sires List, Redoute’s Choice returned the outstanding results of 125 runners, 65 winners, 15 stakeswinners, 4 Group 1 winners & 9 Group winners. Danehill (deceased) & Zabeel (stands NZ) finished ahead of him. Redoute’s Choice posted the impressive stakeswinners to runners ratio of 12% for the season with Danehill on 9.6% and Zabeel on 7.9%.

Redoute’s Choice continued his domination into the sales ring throughout 2005. At the major yearling sales across Australasia, 66 of his progeny sold at an average price of $415,839. Redoute’s Choice was responsible for six of the nine yearlings to be sold for $1 million or more including the Australian record price of $2.5 million for the three quarter brother to Makybe Diva sold by Arrowfield at the Sydney Easter Sale.

STATISTICS

SIRES TABLES

2004/2005 Leading Active Sire in Australia - $7.9 million, 125 runners, 65 winners, 15 stakeswinners (12% SWs/Runners), 4 Group 1 winners & 9 Group winners. (Danehill (deceased) & Zabeel (stands NZ) finished ahead of him (The respective SWs to runners ratios for Danehill and Zabeel for the season were: 9.6% and 7.9%). His earnings this season would have won him the General Sires title in all years back to the 2000/01 season

Champion 2YO Sire in Australia with record earnings - $5.94 million, 55 runners, 23 winners, 10 stakeswinners, 3 Group 1 winners & 7 Group winners

His 2YO earnings eclipsed the previous record set by Danzero in 2003/04 of $3.57 million by almost $2.5 million

NB Redoute’s Choice also had two international 2YO winners:
- Lucky Unicorn – undefeated in 2 starts in Hong Kong
- Solo Turn – winner in Japan against 3YOs

Champion 2nd Season sire - $7.9 million125 runners, 65 winners, 15 stakeswinners, 4 Group1 winners & 9 Group winners. His earnings were $6.1 more than 2nd Leading 2nd Crop Sire Tayasu Tsuyoshi whose progeny earned $1.8 million.

Redoute’s Choice 2nd crop earnings are the highest of all time. Flying Spur registered the highest 2nd crop earnings since 2000 with $3.43 million. The previous highest mark was set by Danehill whose progeny earned $4.42 million.

NB Redoute’s Choice was also 2003/04 Champion 1st Season Sire

AT THE SALES IN 2005

Record price yearling of all time sold at Sydney Easter Sale - $2.5 million

Yearlings averaged $415,839 at the mayor yearling sales (66 sold) – sold off a $30,000 service fee.

6 of the 9 million dollar yearlings sold in 2005 were by Redoute’s Choice

A further 8 sold for $500,000+

He sired 14 of the 33 yearlings to make $500,000 or more

ON THE TRACK 2004/2005

Redoute’s Choice sired 4 individual Group1 winners this season

He created history on many fronts as the below facts show: First stallion to sire winners of the three 2yo majors:
• Gold Coast Magic Millions – Bradbury’s Luck
• Group 1 Blue Diamond – Undoubtedly
• Group 1 Golden Slipper – Stratum

NB Also the sire of Group 1 AJC Sires Produce winner Fashions Afield

One of the most significant factors to demonstrates his dominance in the 2YO ranks was his multiple representatives in the majors:

Golden Slipper - most runners in history with 6 - Stratum (1st), Fashion’s Afield (2nd), Opportunity, Al Samer, Snitzel & Undoubtedly. First stallion to quinella the Golden Slipper(Stratum & Fashions Afield)

Blue Diamond - 4 runners - Undoubtedly (1st), Opportunity (4th), Doubting & Bradbury’s Luck

Gold Coast Magic Millions – 5 runners - 4 of the first 5 across the line -Bradbury’s Luck (1st), Snitzel (dh 3rd), Al Samer (dh 3rd), Sprung (5th), & Owzat)

2004/05 Stakeswinners

2YOs

Stratum – G1; Undoubtedly – G1; Fashions Afield – G1; Al Samer – G3; Doubting – G3; Leveller – G3; Snitzel – G3; Bradbury’s Luck – L (Gold Coast Magic Millions); Fullazz – L; Opportunity – L

3YO’s

Lotteria – G1; Tahni Girl – G3; Provence – L; Chic Choice – L; Not A Single Doubt - L

Redoute’s Choice has now sired winners in six countries: Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and South Africa.

Devastating news today of the shock death of young Qld trainer Tony Hewitt (35) who died in Sydney's Westmead hospital overnight after being struck by a train when leaving work at Rosehill racecourse.

Hewitt was reportedly in Sydney with sprinter Garibaldi, who is entered to race at Randwick on Saturday.

The full story appears in today's Sydney Morning Herald.

Our deepest sympathies extend to Tony's wife and young family, Jon Haseler, Steve Morley, and everyone at Glenlogan Park

Makybe Diva (GB) was last night crowned 2005 Champion Racehorse Of The Year.

The multiple G1 winning mare polled 114 votes out of a possible 145 to receive the award in front of a capacity crowd inside Crown’s Palladium. The champion mare also collected the awards for the TAB Most Popular Racehorse Award, and Radio Sport 927 Champion Stayer (2200m+)

Fastnet Rock won the New Zealand Thoroughbred Marketing Champion Three-Year-Old Colt/Gelding Award sprinter as well as the William Inglis & Son Champion Sprinter Award.

Fashions Afield took out the Yallambee Stud Champion Two-Year-Old Award, while Alinghi won the New Zealand Bloodstock Champion Three-Year-Old Filly Award. Five-time Group 1 winner Grand Armee took the TGM Engineers & Surveyors Champion Middle Distance Racehorse Award, while Elvstroem was named IRT Champion International Performer.

Full details (including full list of award winners and final votes) on the Victoria Racing website.

Some high-level event marketing by the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) with news earlier this week that the Club has secured celebrated tenor Luciano Pavarotti to perform at the exclusive Black Tie Chairman’s Dinner to open this year’s Melbourne Cup Carnival.

The recital will take place before 1,000 guests on Wednesday October 26.

Proceeds from the evening will be directed to Challenge, the VRC’s official charity for the 2005 Melbourne Cup Carnival, which supports kids with cancer.

Of note, the Melbourne Cup Carnival Chairman’s Dinner has traditionally been strictly invitation only, however with the news of the Pavarotti recital, the VRC Committee will now open the event to a wider audience to allow more proceeds for Challenge. Tickets are not cheap however - you'll need to part with $1320 per head for the three-course dinner.

The question is of course - will the famous tenor (who also enjoys an interest in racing) be tempted to stay on as a VIP guest for Emirates Melbourne Cup Day?